22 dead in Pakistan clashes, 21 hurt

The security forces killed 20 militants and injured 15 while two soldiers died and six were wounded in the clashes.

At least 22 people were killed and 21 injured in a clash between militants and security forces in Pakistan's tribal area Sunday, army spokesman Major General Waheed Arshad said.

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The security forces killed 20 militants and injured 15 while two soldiers died and six suffered injuries in the clash in North Waziristan, said Arshad.

The militants launched an attack on the security forces at Mir Ali, a major town in North Waziristan. The security forces retaliated, using helicopters to fight the guerrillas.

The law and order situation in the tribal areas worsened after militants in North Waziristan scrapped a peace deal with the government in July. Frequent clashes between terrorists and security forces have left over 300 dead in the area since mid-July.